Rhode To Pregnancy

rhodetopregnancy

Pregnancy can be exciting, overwhelming, and full of questions. Rhode to Pregnancy breaks down essential women’s health and pregnancy topics in simple, easy-to-understand episodes. From prenatal care and labor to postpartum health, we want to help you feel informed and confident to take charge of your pregnancy. Tune in bi-weekly for simple tips, expert guidance, and local Rhode Island resources aimed to help you navigate every stage of this journey. El embarazo puede ser emocionante, abrumador y lleno de preguntas. Rhode to Pregnancy explica de manera sencilla y clara los temas más importantes de la salud de la mujer y el embarazo. Desde el cuidado prenatal y el parto hasta la recuperación posparto, queremos que te sientas informada y segura para tomar el control de tu embarazo. Sintoniza cada dos semanas para consejos prácticos, orientación de expertos y recursos locales de Rhode Island que te acompañarán en cada etapa de este camino.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Season 2 Episode 4: Diagnostic Genetic Testing

    SHOW NOTES Season 2 Episode 4: Diagnostic Genetic Testing Hosts: Ashley & Malia Special Guest: Dr. Margie Thorsen, MD Episode Summary In this episode of Rhode to Pregnancy, Ashley and Malia welcome maternal–fetal medicine specialist Dr. Margie Thorsen to explain what happens after a positive prenatal screening result. They review how care teams and genetic counsellors support patients, discuss the differences between diagnostic tests like CVS and amniocentesis, and explore the benefits, risks, and decision-making factors involved. Dr. Thorsen also covers coping with difficult news, understanding inconclusive or unexpected results, and learning what options and resources exist in Rhode Island. The episode highlights the role of ultrasounds, especially the mid-pregnancy anatomy scan, in genetic evaluation and offers reassurance and practical advice for managing anxiety during waiting periods. Key Topics Covered What happens after receiving a positive prenatal screening result Roles of the care team and genetic counselors Diagnostic testing options: chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis How each diagnostic test works and when it can be done Benefits and risks of diagnostic testing Factors that guide choosing between CVS and amniocentesis Options for patients who decline diagnostic testing Coping with difficult or unexpected results Understanding inconclusive or borderline results Overview of Rhode Island-specific resources and patient options Role of ultrasound, including the 18-22 week anatomy scan, in genetic evaluation Counseling when screenings show increased risk, but ultrasounds are normal Advice for managing anxiety during waiting periods Important Links & Sources RIPIN: https://ripin.org/about/ Family Services of RI: https://www.familyserviceri.org/programs/ Early Intervention Program: https://eohhs.ri.gov/Consumer/FamilieswithChildren/EarlyIntervention.aspx Katie Beckett Program: https://eohhs.ri.gov/Consumer/FamilieswithChildren/ChildrenwithSpecialNeeds/KatieBeckett.aspx Easterseals RI: https://morc.easterseals.com/ Perspectives Corporation: https://www.perspectivescorporation.com/  Seven Hills Foundation: https://www.sevenhills.org/ Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy  💛 Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend and subscribe for more pregnancy insights!

    24 min
  2. 3 FEB

    Season 2 Episode 3: Exercise in Pregnancy

    SHOW NOTES Episode Title: Season 2 Episode 3: Exercise in Pregnancy In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy Podcast, Ashley and Malia dive into everything you need to know about exercising safely during pregnancy. They break down the benefits of staying active, while also discussing what types of movement are safest—like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact strength training. The hosts explain which activities to avoid, important warning signs to watch for, and how exercise needs can shift across each trimester. They also highlight accessible, budget-friendly workout options and the importance of pelvic floor health. The episode wraps up with guidance on when to talk to your provider and encouragement to approach movement with flexibility, safety, and self-compassion throughout pregnancy. Key Topics Covered: Safety of exercise during pregnancy What exercise can look like  Why exercise matters for physical + mental health Recommended amount and intensity Safe and effective exercise types Activities to avoid Warning signs to stop exercise How exercise changes across each trimester Pelvic floor health and Kegels Budget-friendly ways to stay active When to talk to your provider for clearance   Important Links and Sources: OpenCircle RI: https://opencircleri.com/pregnancy-birth/ Full Radiance Yoga: https://www.fullradianceyoga.com/pricing YMCA: https://ymcagreaterprovidence.org/program/health-wellness Prenatal yoga channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP7Ou7uUiYzCNqFEYEZcPxHifLzqAacIj Kegel Instructions: https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/labor-and-birth/kegel-exercises/ ACOG Guidelines: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period CDC Guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/healthy-pregnant-or-postpartum-women   Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy  💛 Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend and subscribe for more pregnancy insights!

    12 min
  3. 20 JAN

    [Español] Temporada 2, Episodio 2: Conoce a Tu Equipo de Atención en el Embarazo

    En este episodio de Rhode to Pregnancy, Malia y la invitada Leslie explican quién puede cuidarte durante el embarazo, el parto y el período posparto. Describen los roles de los doctores OB/GYN, médicos de familia, enfermeras parteras (midwives), Asistentes Médicos (PA), Enfermeras Practicantes (NP) y especialistas en Medicina Materno-Fetal, y destacan cómo estos profesionales trabajan juntos como tu equipo de atención durante el embarazo. El episodio también revisa dónde recibir cuidado prenatal en Rhode Island, en qué hospitales puedes dar a luz y quién te apoyará en el hospital durante el trabajo de parto y después del nacimiento. Al final del episodio, tendrás una idea clara de tu posible equipo de cuidado y qué esperar en cada etapa del embarazo. Temas Clave Tratados Quién brinda cuidado prenatal: OB/GYNs, médicos de familia, enfermeras parteras, PAs/NPs Qué es la Medicina Materno-Fetal (MFM) y por qué podrías recibir una referencia Dónde recibir cuidado durante el embarazo en Rhode Island (centros de salud comunitarios y prácticas privadas) Dónde puedes dar a luz en Rhode Island Quién formará parte de tu equipo hospitalario: enfermeras, doulas, consultoras de lactancia, etc. Recursos Mencionados de Rhode Island Providence Community Health Centers Blackstone Valley Community Health Center Thundermist Health Center OGCC en Women & Infants Hospital Programas de Parto y Crianza de Women & Infants Hospital Rhode Island Community Health Centers– Women’s health services and referrals Centros de Salud Comuntarios en RI – servicios de salud para mujeres y derivaciones Dónde dar a luz al bebé: Women & Infants Hospital en Providence, RI Kent Hospital en Warwick, RI Newport Hospital, en Newport, RI South County Hospital en Wakefield, RI Landmark Medical Center en Woonsocket, RI Enlaces y Fuentes Importantes Cobertura de doulas por Medicaid (Ley de Doulas de RI 2021) Síguenos en Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy ¿Te gustó este episodio? ¡Compártelo con tus amigas y suscríbete para más!

    20 min
  4. 20 JAN

    Season 2 Episode 2: Understanding Your Pregnancy Care Team

    In this episode of Rhode to Pregnancy, Malia and special guest Leslie break down who may care for you throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. They explain the roles of OB/GYNs, Family Physicians, Midwives, PAs/NPs, and Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists, and they highlight how these professionals work together as your pregnancy care team. The episode also reviews where to receive prenatal care in Rhode Island, where you can deliver your baby, and who will support you in the hospital during labor and after birth. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clear picture of your potential care team and what to expect throughout your pregnancy. Key Topics Covered  Who provides prenatal care: OB/GYNs, Family Physicians, Midwives, PAs/NPs What Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) is and why you might be referred Where to get pregnancy care in Rhode Island (community health centers & private practices) Where you can deliver your baby in RI Who will be part of your hospital care team: nurses, doulas, lactation consultants, etc. Rhode Island Resources Providence Community Health Centers Blackstone Valley Community Health Center Thundermist Health Center OGCC at Women & Infants Hospital Women & Infants Hospital Childbirth & Parenting Programs RI Medicaid Doula Coverage (RI Doula Bill 2021) Where to Deliver: Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, RI Kent Hospital in Warwick, RI Newport Hospital, in Newport, RI South County Hospital in Wakefield, RI Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket, RI Important Links & Sources RI Medicaid Doula Coverage (RI Doula Bill 2021) Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with friends and subscribe for more!

    19 min
  5. 6 JAN

    [Español] Temporada 2, Episodio 1: Resumen del Segundo Trimestre

    En este primer episodio de la temporada 2 del podcast Rhode to Pregnancy, Ashley y Malia comienzan con un resumen completo del segundo trimestre, a menudo llamado la “fase de luna de miel” del embarazo. Explican qué semanas definen el segundo trimestre, los cambios físicos y emocionales que pueden experimentar las personas embarazadas y el rápido crecimiento y desarrollo del bebé durante esta etapa. Las presentadoras también hablan de las visitas y pruebas prenatales más importantes, como la ecografía anatómica, la prueba cuádruple y la prueba de diabetes gestacional, y comparten consejos prácticos para controlar síntomas comunes como el dolor de espalda, el dolor del ligamento redondo y los calambres en las piernas. El episodio termina con una mirada hacia el futuro para prepararse para el tercer trimestre, planificar el parto y mantenerse sana y con apoyo durante esta emocionante etapa intermedia del embarazo. Temas Clave Tratados Qué semanas definen el segundo trimestre (directrices de la ACOG) Por qué se conoce como la “fase de luna de miel” del embarazo Cambios físicos y emocionales comunes en el cuerpo Hitos del desarrollo fetal entre las semanas 14 y 27 Resumen de las visitas prenatales y las pruebas clave Ecografía anatómica (semanas 18-22). Prueba cuádruple y prueba de diabetes gestacional. Control de los síntomas: dolor de espalda, mareos, cambios en la piel y calambres en las piernas. Importancia de la hidratación, la nutrición y las vitaminas prenatales. Bienestar emocional y creación de un sistema de apoyo. Planificación para el tercer trimestre y más allá. Enlaces y Fuentes Importantes https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/routine-tests-during-pregnancy https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/ogcc https://www.thundermisthealth.org/ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/second-trimester/art-20046449 Síguenos en Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy   💛 ¿Te ha gustado este episodio? ¡Compártelo con una amiga y suscríbete para recibir más información sobre el embarazo!

    13 min
  6. 6 JAN

    Season 2 Episode 1: Trimester 2 Overview

    In this first episode of Season 2 of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Ashley and Malia kick things off with a full overview of the second trimester— often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. They explain what weeks define the second trimester, the physical and emotional changes pregnant people may experience, and the baby’s rapid growth and development during this stage. The hosts also discuss key prenatal visits and screenings, including the anatomy scan, quad screen, and gestational diabetes testing, while sharing practical tips for managing common symptoms like back pain, round ligament pain, and leg cramps. The episode closes with a look ahead to preparing for the third trimester, birth planning, and staying healthy and supported through this exciting middle stretch of pregnancy. Key Topics Covered What weeks define the second trimester (ACOG guidelines) Why it’s known as the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy Common physical and emotional body changes Fetal development milestones between 14–27 weeks Overview of prenatal visits and key screenings Anatomy ultrasound (18–22 weeks) Quad screen and gestational diabetes testing Managing symptoms: back pain, dizziness, skin changes, and leg cramps Importance of hydration, nutrition, and prenatal vitamins Emotional well-being and building a support system Planning for the third trimester and beyond Important Links & Sources https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/routine-tests-during-pregnancy https://www.womenandinfants.org/services/ogcc https://www.thundermisthealth.org/ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/second-trimester/art-20046449 Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy  💛 Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend and subscribe for more pregnancy insights!

    12 min
  7. 09/12/2025

    [Español] Episodio 8: Preparación Para El Posparto En El Primer Trimestre

    En este episodio del podcast Rhode to Pregnancy, Malia y Ashley hablan sobre por qué nunca es demasiado pronto para empezar a pensar en el posparto, incluso en el primer trimestre. Analizan lo que le sucede al cuerpo física y emocionalmente después del parto, qué significa realmente “el cuarto trimestre” y cómo el entrenamiento de los músculos del suelo pélvico durante el embarazo puede reducir significativamente las complicaciones posparto. También destacan cómo preparar un plan posparto flexible, reconocer los primeros signos de depresión y ansiedad posparto y acceder a los recursos locales de Rhode Island para obtener apoyo físico y emocional. Temas Clave Tratados ¿Qué significa realmente “posparto” y por qué se le llama “cuarto trimestre”? Recuperación física después del parto: involución uterina, loquios, cicatrización perineal o de cesárea, cambios en el suelo pélvico, recuperación de los senos y el tronco. Entrenamiento de los músculos del suelo pélvico: en qué consiste y por qué es más eficaz comenzar durante el embarazo. Cómo crear un plan posparto: comidas, descanso, división de cuidados y apoyo para la salud mental. Reconocer los signos de la depresión y la ansiedad posparto. Por qué la recuperación no es igual para todas y cómo establecer expectativas realistas. Recursos de Rhode Island Mencionados Open Circle RI – clases prenatales y posparto con opciones de pago según una escala móvil Urban Perinatal Education Center – doulas y educadores que apoyan la recuperación posparto Centros de Salud Comuntarios en RI – servicios de salud para mujeres y derivaciones Apoyo Posparto Internacional (sección de Rhode Island) – Grupos virtuales gratuitos, mentores, directorio de recursos Departamento de Salud de Rhode Island: Salud mental perinatal – Síntomas, recursos y ayuda local Guía de Salud Posparto de Women and Infants’ Hospital Centro Ambulatorio Spaulding para la Salud Pélvica de Care New England Línea nacional de ayuda para la salud mental materna – Llama o envía un mensaje de texto al +1-833-943-5746 (disponible las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana). Enlaces y Fuentes Importantes Problemas de apoyo pélvico: ACOG Ejercicios para el suelo pélvico: NHS Nacimiento en Rhode Island Ejercicios para el suelo pélvico durante el embarazo: OSF Healthcare   5 cosas que me gustaría que todas las mujeres supieran sobre el prolapso de órganos pélvicos: ACOG Comprender el prolapso de órganos pélvicos: ACOG Síguenos en Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy ¿Te ha gustado este episodio? ¡Compártelo con tus amigas y suscríbete para recibir más!

    15 min
  8. 09/12/2025

    Episode 8: Preparing for Postpartum in the First Trimester

    In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Malia and Ashley talk about why it’s never too early to start thinking about the postpartum period, even in the first trimester. They break down what happens to your body physically and emotionally after birth, what “the fourth trimester” really means, and how pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy can significantly reduce postpartum complications. They also highlight how to prepare a flexible postpartum plan, recognize early signs of postpartum depression and anxiety, and access local Rhode Island resources for both physical and emotional support. Key Topics Covered What “postpartum” really means and why it’s called the “fourth trimester” Physical recovery after birth: uterine involution, lochia, perineal or C-section healing, pelvic floor changes, breast and core recovery Pelvic floor muscle training: what it looks like and why starting in pregnancy is most effective How to create a postpartum plan: meals, rest, division of care, and mental health support Recognizing signs of postpartum depression and anxiety Why recovery is not “one-size-fits-all” and how to set realistic expectations Rhode Island Resources  Open Circle RI – Prenatal and postpartum classes with sliding scale payment options Urban Perinatal Education Center – Doulas and educators supporting postpartum recovery Rhode Island Community Health Centers– Women’s health services and referrals Postpartum Support International (RI Chapter) – Free virtual groups, peer mentors, resource directory RI Department of Health: Perinatal Mental Health – Signs, resources, and local help Women and Infants’ Postpartum Health Guide Care New England’s Spaulding Outpatient Center for Pelvic Health National Maternal Mental Health Hotline – Call or text +1-833-943-5746 (available 24/7) Important Links & Sources Pelvic Support Problems  – ACOG Pelvic Floor Exercises – NHS Rhode Island Birth Pelvic Floor Exercises in Pregnancy – OSF Healthcare  5 Things I Wish All Women Knew About Pelvic Organ Prolapse – ACOG Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse – ACOG Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with friends and subscribe for more!

    15 min

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About

Pregnancy can be exciting, overwhelming, and full of questions. Rhode to Pregnancy breaks down essential women’s health and pregnancy topics in simple, easy-to-understand episodes. From prenatal care and labor to postpartum health, we want to help you feel informed and confident to take charge of your pregnancy. Tune in bi-weekly for simple tips, expert guidance, and local Rhode Island resources aimed to help you navigate every stage of this journey. El embarazo puede ser emocionante, abrumador y lleno de preguntas. Rhode to Pregnancy explica de manera sencilla y clara los temas más importantes de la salud de la mujer y el embarazo. Desde el cuidado prenatal y el parto hasta la recuperación posparto, queremos que te sientas informada y segura para tomar el control de tu embarazo. Sintoniza cada dos semanas para consejos prácticos, orientación de expertos y recursos locales de Rhode Island que te acompañarán en cada etapa de este camino.